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Lauren is
Blood Cancer United

A group of three adults sits together on a low stone wall at a sunny waterfront area, smiling and enjoying the day. A seagull spreads its wings behind them, creating a playful moment in the scene. The relaxed outdoor setting can accompany stories or awareness efforts related to blood cancer, highlighting community, support, and joy.

My father, Patrick, was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in January 2024. He underwent treatment and chemotherapy and received his first bone marrow transplant on June 11. 2024. After completing his time in the hospital, he came home to continue his recovery. 

In March 2025, we got the news that cancerous blasts were present again, and Dad was to begin chemotherapy again before getting a second bone marrow transplant. 

On June 20, 2025, Dad received his second bone marrow transplant, and we were once again hopeful for a recovery and his arrival home. Dad came home for a few days before we realized something was wrong. My mom brought him back to the hospital where he was admitted, and it was discovered he had contracted an adenovirus either during or some time immediately after his transplant. 

Dad fought so incredibly hard, but on September 1, 2025, he lost his battle, not to cancer but the adenovirus. He was so brave and never complained. He took everything in stride and was always joking with his doctors and nurses. He is my hero.

Lauren

Family member and caregiver

We are Blood Cancer United.

Everyone affected by blood cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, researchers, advocates, fundraisers, everyone—has a story. Share yours.
Nicole standing outside holding a large Team Nicole Light the Night banner with 2 friends, smiling

Nicole

B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (B-ALL)

Headshot of Michele a Leukemia Survivor smiling, wearing a white sweater.

Michele

Leukemia Survivor

Photo collage Nate in treatment, on IVs bald, in bed, then Nate standing tall and looking healthy

Nate

ALL Survivor

Smiling man with hooded jacket

Kamal

Leukemia Survivor

Lisa and a man standing in a football stadium holding white, yellow and red Light The Night lanterns

Lisa

Lymphoma survivor

Image of Minerva, an AML Survivor

Minerva

AML Survivor

James, volunteer and survivor, pictured with group of friends

James

Volunteer and survivor

lynette-m-1_dam_file_19991.jpeg

Lynette

Volunteer

deanna-w_0_dam_file_20671.jpg

Deanna

ALL Survivor

Headshot of Todd wearing suit and tie, a cancer survivor

Todd

Volunteer

A visitor standing near the Colosseum in Rome smiles in the sunlight, wearing glasses and a beige patterned top with a black shoulder strap. The ancient stone arches rise behind them against a clear blue sky, capturing a travel moment while raising awareness for blood cancer through inclusive, human‑centered storytelling.

Joan

double-hit lymphoma (DHL)

Smiling person wearing a race medal stands beside a Team In Training sign, expressing pride, determination, and accomplishment while supporting blood cancer research, awareness, and community fundraising.

Jill

Caregiver, family member, advocate, healthcare professional, supporter

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is now Blood Cancer United. Learn more.